Wilmington Student Miriam Nelson Named To Senate Youth Program

WILMINGTON, MA — Wilmington High School senior Miriam Nelson was recently selected one of the two Massachusetts delegates to the U.S. Senate Youth Program.

As a state delegate, Nelson will attend a virtual weeklong study of the federal government and receive a $10,000 scholarship to college.

The program, created in 1962, brings together two students from each state, plus two each from the District of Columbia and military schools.

The students attend "Washington Week," a program designed "to increase young Americans’ understanding of the interrelationships of the three branches of government, learn the caliber and responsibilities of federally elected and appointed officials, and emphasize the vital importance of democratic decision making not only for America but for people around the world."

This year's Washington Week is virtual due to the coronavirus. Students will attend online meetings and briefings with the president, senators, a Supreme Court justice, agency heads and members of the national media, among others.

In a news release Monday, the program shared this bio of Nelson:

"Miriam Nelson, a senior at Wilmington High School, serves as co-president of the Senior Class, treasurer of the National Honor Society, treasurer of the local Rotary Interact club, and president of her school's Model UN.

Before the pandemic, she was also a captain of Girls Track and Field and hosted birthday parties at a laser tag entertainment center. Miriam co-founded Project Make Your Mark, which celebrates students and the community-at-large through ceiling tile art. In addition, she interned at the Massachusetts State House, where she was able to pursue her passion for public service.

Miriam was admitted to Harvard College, where she hopes to study economics and government. She plans to learn all she can about the economics of the internet, the environment, energy, labor, and education, and how these translate to policy to improve the lives of others. "

Nelson's co-delegate is Jack Perenick of Longmeadow.

Delegates are picked by state departments of education, with the chief state school officer making the final decision. Alumni of the program include Maine Sen. Susan Collins, Treasury Secretary Pete Buttigieg and former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie.

Christopher Huffaker can be reached at 412-265-8353 or chris.huffaker@patch.com.